The MASSB Minute

Welcome to the new year and the time to renew our commitment to strategic planning. For us that includes ensuring we have strong boards with capable leaders. During my career working for the Department of the Navy I saw the benefit in having regular changes in leadership. Admirals typically spend 3-4 years in their position, then they're off to the next challenge.

The key to success is having strong and capable people ready to take the helm. With that in mind, I'd like to introduce MASSB Foundation's new Vice Chair, Tony Wohlers. Tony and I will be working closely together so that we have a smooth transition of leadership at the end of this year. Read more about Tony, below, and think about how you plan to groom your successor for when your term as Board Chair is up.

Best wishes for a healthy and successful year,
Chris Cummings

It's February and your board is concerned about families without shelter from the cold. Maybe you're helping with rent arrearages or paying electric bills. Are you keeping a record of the people you help? Metrics are important because they can be used to describe the impact of an organization's work. For nonprofits, metrics are a way to convince donors and grant makers that their contributions will make a difference. Capture your metrics each time you help someone. It is much easier to document data real-time, then to try to recreate what happened in the past.

Tony Wohlers, Advisory Board Chair and MASSB Foundation Vice Chair

"My advice to a new chair is to carefully listen to your fellow board members, capitalize on their skills, inspire them when needed, and always show appreciation for the work they do to advance the mission and vision of the Advisory Board.

I'm most proud of working with the individuals involved in MASSB and Advisory Boards committed to supporting those in need and thereby improving the quality of life for our communities. This year I look forward to working with the MASSB Executive Team to develop and offer new resources for Advisory Boards to accomplish their goals and thrive accordingly."

Congratulations to this year's winners!

1st Place… Baltimore Co. for their Sexual Abuse Treatment Program (SATP) - Clinical Services for youth ages 10-21. This unique program which includes individualized evidence based therapy, including trauma therapy, is delivering positive results for youth and their families. ($1000)

And tying for 2nd place… Calvert Co. for establishing a robust network of partnerships to reach vulnerable children, and using those partnerships effectively during the pandemic. ($500) Kent Co. for their program to provide financial support to ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) families who have income above the poverty level, but not enough to afford basic living expenses. ($500)

Thank you to Sandy Spring Bank for your sponsorship which allows us to recognize and support these innovative programs! Kent County's board, Kent County Cares, provides financial assistance for ALICE families.

April 22, 12pm — Community Meeting & 1st Qtr Financial Review
What topics would you like to see on the agenda? Let us know! trustee@massbfoundation.org